We Didn’t Write This (But We Completely Agree): Subaru Tops the 2026 Consumer Reports List

Hello Central Oregon,

If you’ve ever stopped by the dealership to look at a car, you know we can talk your ear off about why we love Subarus. We will gladly spend an hour explaining how the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive actually works in deep snow, or why having nearly nine inches of ground clearance is a game-changer when you’re exploring the High Desert.

But as much as we believe in these vehicles, we know we are a little biased. That is why we get so excited when an independent, famously strict group comes to the exact same conclusion we have.

The results are in, and Consumer Reports just named Subaru the #1 Best Overall Car Brand for 2026.

And honestly? We couldn’t be prouder. This isn’t just a popularity contest. Consumer Reports buys their own vehicles, tests them ruthlessly, and analyzes surveys from hundreds of thousands of actual owners. They look at safety, long-term reliability, owner satisfaction, and how a car handles real-world driving.
www.rhsubaru.com
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Here is a quick look at who took home the trophies this year:

The 2026 Subaru Forester (and Forester Hybrid): Named the Top Pick for Compact SUVs. This is actually the 13th year in a row the Forester has made the top list! Consumer Reports loved the roomy interior, the unmatched visibility, and the top-tier safety ratings. We love it because it’s essentially the unofficial mascot of Central Oregon—perfect for hauling gear, kids, and dogs through any weather without breaking a sweat.
www.nrsubaru.ca

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek: Named the Top Pick for Subcompact SUVs for the third year running. Reviewers praised its versatility and reliability. If you want a vehicle that is easy to park downtown on a busy Saturday but still has the grit to get you down a washboard dirt road to your favorite trailhead, the Crosstrek is it.
www.michaelhohlsubaru.com

The Rest of the Family: It wasn’t just the Forester and Crosstrek getting the spotlight. Consumer Reports also highly recommended the Outback, Ascent, Impreza, WRX, and BRZ. Basically, whatever size or style of vehicle you need, Subaru is building a top-tier option.
www.crosscreeksubaru.com

Why This Matters for Central Oregon Drivers
When Consumer Reports praises a car for being “reliable” and “safe in all conditions,” they are speaking our language. Out here, a vehicle isn’t just a way to get to the grocery store—it’s your weekend basecamp, your winter survival gear, and your daily commuter all rolled into one. You need a car that shows up for the job every single day, no matter what the weather is doing.

Come see what the hype is about.
Reading about awards is great, but getting behind the wheel is better. If you want to see why these models are making national headlines again, come visit us on Highway 20. There is no pressure—just grab a cup of coffee, take a Forester or Crosstrek for a spin, and see for yourself why Subaru took the #1 spot.

See you at the dealership,

The Team at Subaru of Bend
(Located on NE Hwy 20)